Personal vs Business Social Media Accounts

There is much confusion about how to segregate personal from business social media accounts. Much of the uncertainty stems around setting up Facebook pages, but many people also use social venues such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.

There are many reasons to segregate personal from business social media accounts. Most people are familiar with the saying of don't mix business with pleasure. When it comes to conducting business online there are many ramifications that can occur by allowing colleagues and consumers into your personal life.

There is little doubt social media has leveled the playing field for small business owners. Everyone can take advantage of all the perks regardless of the size of their marketing budget.

With that said, it is imperative for people to realize that all posts made through networking venues are a direct reflection on the company they represent. Once something goes live it is hard to retract, especially if posts go viral.

Nearly everyone who spends time online has read stories about companies, politicians and influential persons who made inappropriate tweets, YouTube videos, or Facebook posts that instantly proliferated across the Internet.

Recovering from social media disaster can be a painful and expensive process. The best approach is to minimize risks by developing a social media marketing plan and training every person involved.

Along with developing marketing plans, companies need to become educated in the ways to fully capitalize on social media. Take time to read the terms of service for each venue. It's vital to follow the rules, as those who violate can have their business page shut down or permanently banned.

For instance, Facebook prohibits people from having multiple accounts. Those in violation will have their accounts disabled. This is not to say, that people cannot have multiple pages. Subscribers can create a variety of personal pages, business pages, and groups, but they must all originate from one Facebook account.

For example, Jane Smith could create a personal page and a business page. The business page doesn't have to include her name at all. Jane will have separate identities and will be able to post under her business persona on her business page as well as her personal page and the personal and business pages of others.

It is crucial for Facebook subscribers to double-check their identity prior to making posts. Responding under their real name instead of the business name is often the root of social media disasters.

Another option is to only use Facebook to create a business account. Companies can manage business pages and advertising campaigns, but won't be able to interact with others except as their business page. This option doesn't have a personal profile attached to the account, but does limit the level of activities that can be performed.

Facebook business pages offer additional features that are not available with personal pages. These include things such as paid advertising, multiple administrators, Facebook insights and analytics, and tabs which can be personalized to enhance brand recognition.

It is not uncommon for business owners to feel overwhelmed at the idea of setting up multiple social networking accounts. An affordable solution is to work with a social media marketing consultant such as Online Marketing DNA.

OMDNA excels at helping companies expand their online presence by integrating a variety of Internet marketing strategies. We can help owners learn how to segregate personal from business social media accounts; establish new accounts; or enhance existing social marketing endeavors.

We are currently accepting a limited number of business owners who are ready to take their company to new heights using proven SEO methods. Visit our social media blog to learn more about our company and marketing programs.